Crisis responds to Budget

22.11.20172772XX

In today’s Budget the Chancellor Phillip Hammond announced these measures for tackling homelessness which Crisis has campaigned for:

£20m for private rented sector access and support (Help to Rent schemes campaigned for by Crisis)

£28m for Housing First pilot schemes in 3 areas: Manchester, Liverpool and the West Midlands

Confirmed the launch of the Homelessness Reduction Taskforce, which will develop a cross‑government strategy to work towards its commitment to halve rough sleeping by 2022

In response, Chief Executive of Crisis Jon Sparkes said:

“We’re thrilled that with the help of our supporters and politicians across the political spectrum, the Government has recognised that to truly build a country that works for everyone, we must solve our homelessness crisis urgently.

“Right now – thousands of people are living rough on the streets or in unstable and unsuitable temporary accommodation with nowhere to turn. With homelessness on the rise and the cold winter months closing in, it’s more urgent than ever that we fix this crisis now.

“Building more homes, establishing a Homelessness Task Force, and funding programmes that help homeless people access a stable home through Help to Rent and Housing First schemes are key to supporting those in the most vulnerable circumstances.

“To truly make a success of these schemes the Government must now turn these words into action – firstly by getting the Homelessness Task Force up and running to deal with the emergency of rough sleeping in this country, and to fully support local councils in the roll out of the Homelessness Reduction Act when it comes into effect next year.

“These measures represent real progress and commitment to tackling homelessness. We look forward to working closely with the government on these measures, and ultimately, to put an end to homelessness in Britain once and for all.”

ENDS

About Crisis

Crisis is the national charity for homeless people. We are determined to end homelessness. We do it person by person and by influencing policies to ensure everyone has a place to call home.

Homelessness is devastating, leaving people vulnerable and isolated. Crisis offers ground breaking housing, health, education and employment services. We work with thousands of homeless people across the UK every year.

We are determined campaigners. We draw on our research, partnerships and years of experience of working directly with homeless people to deliver change and a vision to end homelessness for good.